Honda’s contract situation – his current deal at CSKA is due to expire in January – means he would be available for as little as £5m, though Everton would likely face stiff competition from across Europe. AC Milan have also been credited with an interest.

CSKA’s general director, Roman Babaev, says the Russians would be prepared to offload the free-scoring midfielder, but only if the right offer came in.

Babaev said: “The situation has not changed. Honda could be speaking to another club at the moment, because the rules allow it.

“But our position is clear. We are ready to let him go if we receive a reasonable offer.

“We are pleased that Milan are interested but we also have to be realistic. Yes, his expiring contract affects his market value but there is a limit as to how low we can go.

“We are not worried if he ends up leaving the club on a free transfer.

“It is a difficult decision to make – part ways with Honda now or keep him until his contract expires.

“We are interested to know how this progresses. The ball is in Milan’s court now.”

Everton remain on course to complete the double signing of Wigan’s Antolin Alcaraz and Arouna Kone, and have an interest in landing Barcelona teenager Gerard Deulofeu on loan. They expect, however, to be competing with the likes of Tottenham and Liverpool if they are to land the highly-rated 19-year-old.

The Blues are also yet to receive any further bids from Manchester United for full back Leighton Baines, and are unwavering in their commitment not to sell the England man. It is also understood that Arsenal remain keen on signing midfielder Marouane Fellaini, though no official offer has been received at this point.